Polaris / Glossary
The language of custom deal toys.
Clear definitions for better design conversations.
Materials and processes are often used as shorthand. These explanations distinguish the terms that matter when choosing a construction, reviewing artwork or planning a custom piece.
3D Laser Etching
A process that creates an image within suitable clear crystal using precisely positioned laser marks. It differs from engraving the surface or casting an object inside acrylic.
Read more about 3d laser etching →Acrylic
A plastic used for clear or colored panels, cast forms, layers and suitable embedments. Shape, thickness and manufacturing method affect what can be produced.
Read more about acrylic →Autoclave
A chamber that applies controlled heat and pressure. In cast acrylic production, it can be used as part of the curing process.
Read more about autoclave →Crystal
A glass-based material used in awards and deal toys for its clarity, weight and polished surfaces. Decoration may include printing, surface engraving or internal laser engraving, depending on the material and design.
Read more about crystal →Deal Toy
A physical commemorative made to mark a transaction or business milestone. Financial tombstone and deal marker are also common industry terms.
Read more about deal toy →Digital Printing
Printing artwork from a digital file onto a compatible surface or insert. The method, inks and substrate determine the available color, detail and finish.
Read more about digital printing →Embedments
Graphics or suitable objects incorporated inside cast acrylic. Each insert must be assessed for compatibility with the heat, pressure and chemistry of the casting process.
Read more about embedments →Laser Etching
A laser process used to mark or engrave a compatible material. The result depends on the material, equipment and artwork; surface marking and internal crystal engraving are different processes.
Read more about laser etching →Lucite
A brand name associated with acrylic. It is often used informally for acrylic deal toys, but not all acrylic is Lucite-branded and not all deal toys are acrylic.
Read more about lucite →UV Printing
A digital printing process that uses ultraviolet light to cure the ink. It can apply artwork to suitable surfaces, with adhesion and finish checked for the particular material.
Read more about uv printing →Choose the process around the idea.
See how materials, prototypes and manufacturing decisions fit together.
